Abstract
Background: IBS is a serious condition that affects many young adults and is linked to increased psychological stress. Therefore, raising awareness about it is crucial. The objective is to find out how well the general Saudi community in Taif is aware about IBS, including its causes, symptoms, and risk factors. Methods: It was decided to use a cross-sectional study design.The study was carried out during a period of two months from October 1st 2021 to December 31st, 2021. A pre-designed online disseminated questionnaire was designed to fulfill the study objective was used for data collection. Results: The majority of participants (79.3%) were aware that they had IBS; 30.9% had it in the past or currently; 84.9% said that abdominal pain, cramps, or bloating related defecation were symptoms; 68.9% said that a change in the frequency of urination was a symptom; and 87.2% said that bloating or increased gas was a symptom. The majority (89.3%) stated that stress and psychological issues are the main causes of IBS, although 45.4% believed that bacterial or viral infections were too responsible. Most of the participants (86.0%) consider that IBS increases the probability of developing mood disorders and impairs the standard of life, 84.4% think that IBS has treatment, 89% said that IBS necessitates attending the hospital to obtain diagnosis and treatment. Conclusion: The majority of the general populations of Taif, KSA were aware of irritable bowel syndrome, its causes, risk factors and treatment.